PROJECT HIGHLIGHT
This study will quantify the movement of microplastics within the Monterey Bay watershed and determine the major local sources of microplastic pollution, filling a geographical gap in research between the San Francisco Bay and Southern California Bight region.
PROJECT SUMMARY
This project will quantify microplastic flux into and within Monterey Bay, a large, biologically rich, open ocean bay in central California — and a site where, compared to other portions of the California coastline, data is currently lacking.
Samples will be collected from sites on the Salinas, Pajaro, San Lorezno and Carmel rivers just upstream of estuarine influence; from beach sand near these river mouths; from offshore waters adjacent to the river mouths; and from wildlife samples, including whole krill, whale fecal matter and anchovy and sardine gastrointestinal tracts. The range of sites will allow the researchers to consider the flux throughout the watershed and into marine food webs. The project will engage local communities by involving citizen scientists in data collection.
The project is a partnership that includes collaborators from government, academia, NGOs and industry, and will provide detailed recommendations to the Regional Water Quality Control Board regarding site-specific best management practices to mitigate microplastic inputs into the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
Matthew Savoca